Your Voice at the Democratic Convention

Statement

Whenever tens of thousands of members of either party get together, there is a real risk that you'll see nothing but binge drinking, hooking up, and -- worst of all -- self-congratulations.

We can't let that happen this year. Too much is at stake.

I'm going to go to the Democratic Convention next week. I will do my best to see to it that the focus is on solving the problems of America, and the problems of Americans in need. And I won't be alone.

The Progressive Democrats of America have organized a program next Tuesday called "Progressive Central." I'm on the program. So are progressive Reps. Conyers, Ellison, Grijalva and McGovern, and former Gov. Michael Dukakis. We are what author Jim Hightower likes to call "aggressive progressives." Our goal is simple: to get our leaders, our party and the media to concentrate on what's important.

What's important? Addressing the gross inequality that leads to more than 20 million Americans who can't find full-time work, 50 million who can't see a doctor when they are sick, and more than 45 million who need Government assistance to feed themselves. Taking giant strides, not baby steps, toward justice, equality and peace.

Certain quarters of the Democratic Party have become fearful about adopting anything resembling a platform. Call it "policyphobia." That's wrong. The surest way to win an election is to explain to the voters how you can improve their lives, and convince them that you will actually do it if you win.

If by some chance you are going to be in Charlotte, North Carolina next Tuesday, then you can buy a ticket for the day-long event here. If not, then you can show your support for serious discussion of our principles by clicking here. We will be your voice at the Democratic Convention.